University of Pretoria (UP) final-year LLB student in the Faculty of Law Dimakatso Lekola was recently awarded the Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) prize in the Humanitarian and Leadership category by Junior Chamber International (JCI) South Africa.

The JCI is a global non-profit with local organisations in more than 100 countries. Its network of young leaders aims to empower youth in their communities. Each year, 10 young people under the age of 40 are recognised with the TOYP award. These individuals exhibit the JCI’s ethos through their outstanding contributions to community service, business and entrepreneurship, personal growth, and inter-cultural understanding.

Lekola was recognised for his work as the founder and CEO of the DK Lekola Global Education Institute, which was founded in May 2022 and specialises in educational services.

“Being part of the prestigious TOYP list has filled me with an immense sense of accomplishment,” says Lekola, who hails from Phetwane Village, in Marble Hall, Limpopo. “This distinction carries with it a profound weight and a renewed commitment to the cause I hold dear.”

The institute aims to bridge the gap in South Africa’s education system and promote inclusivity in the field of education, Lekola explains.

“The organisation hopes to develop the best economic front-liners through a blended education system in high schools and tertiary institutions that enables learners and students to stand out,” he says.

Expressing his gratitude during the awards ceremony, which was held in Hatfield, Lekola said that even though this achievement is deeply personal, he could not have done it alone.

“This award is the result of the collective effort and the unwavering support and belief in the transformative power of youth of each of the communities that I have worked with. Your encouragement, guidance and belief in my potential have fuelled my drive to make a positive impact in South Africa and beyond.”

Lekola models himself on South African mining magnet and businessman Patrice Motsepe who, he says, has done a lot of humanitarian work in South Africa.

He attributes some of his success to UP.

“Getting an education at UP has empowered me to realise my passions because I have realised that I am innovative, and I can make my dreams a reality and stand out,” he says. “Plus, I am receiving education from a research-intensive university that is facilitated by the world’s greatest experts in their respective fields.”